University of Notre Dame Australia awards honorary doctorate to Robert Isaacs

The University of Notre Dame Australia awarded an honorary Doctor of Letters to Dr. Robert Isaacs AM during its Fremantle graduation ceremony this month. The university recognized the Noongar Elder and community leader for more than five decades of service to Aboriginal Australians in the areas of health, housing, justice, education, and reconciliation.

Dr. Isaacs, an Elder of the Whadjuk-Bibilmum Wardandi Noongar language group, established the Aboriginal Medical Service Dental Clinic in 1975 to address the lack of culturally appropriate healthcare. His leadership in housing initiatives has helped more than 8,000 Aboriginal people access stable and affordable housing. Additionally, as a Director of Noongar Mia Mia, he has worked to provide culturally appropriate housing solutions throughout Western Australia.

The university conferred the degree in recognition of his contributions to Australian society and his long-term support of the institution's mission and values.